New Delhi– Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 8th edition of the International Telecommunication Union-World Telecommunication Standardization Assembly (ITU-WTSA) at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi on Tuesday. He emphasized India’s significant advancements in telecom and digital technology. Alongside the ITU-WTSA, the Prime Minister also inaugurated the 8th India Mobile Congress (IMC), themed “The Future is Now.”

India’s Telecom Landscape

In his address, PM Modi highlighted India’s position as a leading country in the telecom sector. With 1.2 billion mobile users and 950 million internet users, India processes over 40% of the world’s real-time digital transactions. He stated, “Digital connectivity is not just about technology; it is also a tool for last-mile delivery, making this global discussion on telecommunications a chance for worldwide good.”

Global Empowerment Through Connectivity

The Prime Minister linked the objectives of the WTSA with the India Mobile Congress, asserting that “WTSA focuses on global empowerment through consensus, while the IMC emphasizes connectivity.” He noted that consensus and connectivity are essential in today’s conflict-ridden world, promoting India’s philosophy of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” (the world is one family) as a guiding principle.

PM Modi also highlighted India’s role in global leadership during the G20 summit, stating, “When we led the G20, we conveyed the message of ‘One Earth, One Family, One Future.’ India is committed to uniting the world and moving beyond conflict.”

Advancements in Telecom Manufacturing

The Prime Minister discussed India’s telecom manufacturing revolution, revealing that in 2014, the nation had only two mobile manufacturing units, whereas today there are over 200. He remarked, “We previously imported most of our mobile phones. Today, we manufacture six times more and are exporting globally. Our goal is to produce entirely ‘Made-in-India’ phones, from chips to finished products, backed by significant investments in semiconductors.”

Call for Global Cyber Governance

Addressing the rising cyber threats, PM Modi urged for the establishment of a global digital governance framework. “The time has come for international institutions to recognize the need for a framework that governs technology and protects citizens. Technology transcends borders, and no country can tackle cyber threats alone. We must collaborate to create global guidelines for the digital age,” he stated.

He highlighted India’s Data Protection Act and National Cyber Security Strategy as evidence of the country’s dedication to a secure digital environment.

Rapid Digital Growth

PM Modi noted that in just ten years, the length of optical fiber laid in India has reached eight times the distance between the Earth and the Moon. “Two years ago, we launched 5G services, and now nearly every district in India is connected. India is the second-largest 5G market globally and is advancing rapidly towards 6G technology,” he added.

Empowering Women in Technology

The Prime Minister emphasized initiatives aimed at increasing women’s participation in technology leadership. He mentioned the Namo Drone Didi program, promoting a drone revolution in agriculture led by women in rural areas, and the Bank Sakhi initiative, where women lead digital banking and payment awareness at the grassroots level.

In healthcare, PM Modi pointed out how ASHA and Anganwadi workers utilize tablets and apps to manage maternity and child care, illustrating the integration of digital tools in essential services.

Following the inauguration, he toured the exhibition at the venue with Union Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia. This marks the first time India and the Asia-Pacific region have hosted the ITU-WTSA.